Because two nights ago I went to a loud birthday party at a Polish bar, and because my allergies have not yet subsided, today I sound like Elaine Stritch. Not the first time, won’t be the last.

Tonight there’s a reading/book signing at the Tiki Terrace. I’d love to go but not having a car all but ensures that I can’t. I could take the Metra out there but would then have no way to get back home, since the train stops running around 7 pm. Fiddlesticks.

Blue Lu Barker makes me happy. Stereolab makes me happy. Arlo Guthrie, Les Baxter make me happy.